Germany has stepped into Asia-Pacific debates with strong words directed at China. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul called Beijing’s actions in Asia “increasingly aggressive” during his visit to Japan on Monday. He accused China of making threats to change borders and disrupt the status quo in areas like the Taiwan Strait and the East and South China Seas.
Germany Raises Concerns Over China’s Aggressive Moves in Asia
Wadephul pointed out that such actions do not only affect Asia but also carry consequences for the rest of the world, including Europe. He explained that any military escalation in these critical Asian trade routes could impact international security and damage the global economy.
Before arriving in Japan, Germany’s foreign ministry had already released a statement on Sunday highlighting China’s growing dominance. It also questioned international law, claiming that China was “increasingly asserting its regional supremacy.”
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The German minister also stressed that Europe could not ignore developments in Asia. According to him, the situation in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea had wider global implications because “fundamental principles of our global coexistence are at stake.”
China Responds Strongly to German Remarks on Asia
Beijing quickly reacted to Germany’s comments, warning Berlin not to “incite confrontation” or “hype up tensions.” China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning addressed the matter in a press briefing on Monday. She rejected Germany’s claims and said the East China Sea and the South China Sea remained “generally stable.”
Mao Ning urged all countries to show respect to Asian nations and resolve disputes through dialogue. She added that efforts should focus on maintaining peace and stability in Asia instead of stirring conflict. She also made it clear that “the Taiwan question is China’s internal affair,” signaling Beijing’s firm stance on the issue.
Her statement reflected China’s frustration over Germany’s growing criticism. In particular, Beijing rejected the suggestion that its actions were undermining global rules. According to China, its regional activities are legal and within its rights.
At the same time, Mao Ning stressed that cooperation and consultation were the best ways forward for peace in Asia. She asked other countries, including Germany, to stop making comments that could fuel disagreements and conflicts in the Asian region.
Dispute Extends to Ukraine War Support
The tensions between Germany and China did not stop at Asia-Pacific security. In Tokyo, Johann Wadephul also accused Beijing of indirectly supporting Russia in its war against Ukraine. He claimed China was “Russia’s largest supplier of dual-use goods” and the country’s “best oil and gas customer.” According to him, this support made Moscow’s ongoing war possible.
Wadephul’s remarks were made shortly before important international negotiations with European leaders, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and U.S. President Donald Trump took place in Washington. The meeting was aimed at discussing security guarantees for Ukraine. Wadephul argued that such guarantees were “crucial” to help Kiev defend itself even after any ceasefire or peace deal.
The German minister also referred to the recent summit in Alaska between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He said that the meeting made it clear Russia had to take responsibility for achieving peace. Wadephul said that strong pressure on Moscow, including more help to Ukraine, was necessary until that time.
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However, China’s approach to the Ukraine situation differed. According to Mao Ning, Beijing welcomed the peace negotiations in Washington and urged all sides to come to a just and legally binding deal as quickly as possible. She added that China was happy to see Russia and the US maintaining communication and backed initiatives for a peaceful resolution.
The sharp exchange of words between Germany and China highlighted the growing distance in their positions. Germany linked China’s actions in Asia with its role in Europe’s largest conflict since World War II. China, meanwhile, dismissed the criticism and insisted it was working toward peace and stability.